There is no question about it, the technology workforce is constantly evolving. And, the number of technology jobs is on the rise and the growth rate is expected to increase over the years. So, in summary, those with skills in technology are in high demand. To meet these demands, there are a number of companies in the Chicago area that provide classes introducing coding and technology skills to kids. This is a great time for kiddos to gain exposure and possibly develop an interest in technology. Who knows, maybe they may even pursue a degree and career in technology. Here is a list of some of the programs available in the Chicago area.

Power Up Tech Academy

What: At Power Up Tech Academy, your child can attend weekly coding classes throughout the year to gradually build skills and confidence in technology. Each class gives an opportunity to learn something new, build on what they have learned already, and apply their creativity to take it to new heights. Classes are hands-on and project-based, so kids are always building and creating. And the motivation of seeing their own ideas take shape drives them to learn more and take on the next challenges! Summer camps also available.

What: At Alexa Café, girls tap into the power of technology, exploring leadership, entrepreneurship, and social activism along the way. Ideas take shape around café tables in a fresh, empowering setting. New friends join forces and collaborate to better our world. Whether your daughter wants to code an app for charity, design her own video game, engineer wearable electronics, or discover the secrets of cyber security, she'll create a project she's passionate about and join an inspired community of girls in STEM.

What: Kickstart your child’s future at the nation's leading summer tech camp. Offering tech education for kids and teens since 1999, we are the #1 tech camp on the planet, based on student enrollment. We’ve also been voted a Top Workplace 7 years running by the Bay Area News Group. But here’s what really matters: we engage tens of thousands of kids and teens in STEM each year, and help them discover and pursue their passions. That’s the power of internalDrive. Read on to discover the many ways iD Tech does things differently.

What: We leverage cutting edge technology, friendly instructors, and the coolest toys on the planet to create a fun, interactive & project-based learning environment where kids love unleashing their creativity while learning computer coding & engineering design skills that are essential for 21st century success. Summer camps and classes offered throughout the year.

Northwestern University, Center for Talent Development at Northwestern

What: The Center for Talent Development (CTD) at Northwestern University is dedicated to helping gifted and talented students, age 4 through grade 12, reach full potential. We provide research-based assessment, advanced academic programs, and resources to enhance gifted education and guide students in developing their talents. Offers programs in coding and robotics.

What: At Kids STEM Studio, we seek to tap into children’s natural desire to experiment and explore. The best learning is done with hands-on, authentic activities where kids are allowed to test hypotheses, use their imagination and take risks. We believe science, technology, engineering and math isn’t just for guys in white coats, it’s for everyone. We strive to instill that belief in our students and in their endless abilities to learn, create and achieve their goals.

What: More than an activity, more than a maker space, Bit Space is a customized curriculum built on decades of experience and we provide opportunities for years of progressive learning. Like the rings on a tree, the art and science of making things is layered in complexity and difficulty level. Our curriculum carefully sequences your children's path through those layers. Progression from a newbie to a skilled craftsman of all things physical and digital is possible with long term engagement in our programs.

Location:

Chicago

Wilmette, IL opening soon

Code Play Learn

What: Code Play Learn focuses on creating a methodology of thought and process as participants learn through hands-on and project based learning experiences. Our classes and camps allow participants to work through the creation process as they design, code and build their own computer games, apps, robots and more.

What: Codeverse is the world's best technology-enabled classroom for kids in grades 1-8. Kids learn code in an immersive environment full of cutting-edge technology. Every object in our studio can be controlled by your kid's code, including drones, robots, 3D printers, lasers, and more!